Ant and Dec, the beloved British television presenting duo, have made a definitive statement that they will never return to host the Brit Awards again. This announcement comes despite their previous successful stints hosting the prestigious music ceremony on three separate occasions: in 2001, 2015, and 2016.
Revealing the Reasons Behind Their Decision
The duo, comprising Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, opened up about their difficult experiences during a candid discussion on their popular podcast, Hanging Out with Ant & Dec. Ant McPartlin explained in detail the primary challenges they faced while hosting the event.
Managing Celebrity Audiences
One of the main issues highlighted was the behaviour of the celebrity audience. McPartlin described how attendees were primarily focused on drinking and enjoying themselves, which made it incredibly difficult to maintain order and engagement during the live broadcast. He noted that this atmosphere created a chaotic environment that was hard to manage from the stage.
Artist and Band Indecision
Additionally, the presenters encountered significant difficulties with artists and bands frequently changing their minds about pre-show interviews. This last-minute indecision added to the stress and complexity of hosting the awards, making the overall experience more taxing than anticipated.
Looking Ahead to This Year's Ceremony
In contrast, this year's Brit Awards will be hosted by comedian Jack Whitehall, marking his sixth time in the role. The ceremony is scheduled to air on ITV on Saturday, 28 February 2026, promising a fresh take on the event without Ant and Dec's involvement.
The duo's decision underscores the unique pressures of hosting high-profile entertainment events, where managing celebrity egos and unpredictable schedules can overshadow the glamour and excitement of the occasion.
